To many confusing options!

b4tn · Jun 23, 2015

I am in the planning stages of a 75 Gallon Reef. I intentionally put lighting as the last item to research just because it seems so complicated and everyone is biased when it comes to what kind of light is best. I want a light system that will be good for everything, dimmable, programmable would be nice but not required, and somewhat inexpensive. My research has led me to two units that have a huge price gap and I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for something in between.

Everyone seems to love the Marsaqua at $163! It is very reasonable and seems to put out enough light for just about anything. Its not programmable and PAR is not listed but everyone has good reviews. I would need two for my 48" tank http://www.ebay.com/itm/MarsAqua-2P...046?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item58bbaabd66

Reef breeders Photon looks amazing but at $500 Its a bit rich for me. Everyone loves this one as well. But I would really like to keep my budget under $300. https://www.reefbreeders.com/shop/photon-48/

The USA Orbit for $394 for two. I wish I could find a unit like this for $300 that had the programability with a decent light spread. From what I have read to get a decent amount of light you need to purchase two for a 4 foot tank. http://www.amazon.com/Current-USA-Marine-Aquarium-60-Inch/dp/B00GFTSV24

Does anyone have any middle ground recommendations? So far I think I am going to go with the Chinese lights.

hart24601 · Jun 23, 2015

I would go with either the reef breeder 48", I know it's a bit rich for you, but I do think you would be happy having the built in controller and coverage it provides with built in moonlight or other option that I like would be 2 ocean revive fixtures. I like their spectrum and heatsinks on the smaller lights they sell.

Chris Adams · Jun 23, 2015

Don't forget to give reef radiance a look also. I have been real happy with my IT2040

Reefing Madness · Jun 23, 2015

I use the EBay units, have 2 of them. They are just like the name brands, work just like em, and are just fine on our tanks. I've got no problem with the ones I run.

cginter · Jun 23, 2015

Reef breeders is good, along with reef radiance. Both are fairly reasonable for what your getting. I have 4 units... 1 of each and 2 Chinese box (120w full spectrum and dimmable for $120/unit on Amazon or eBay). They all work good but if I had to buy another it would be from reef breeders. Hope that helps you out.